korea & life

  Korean Cafe Interior Trends: Spaces Filled with Emotion In Korea, cafes are more than just places to drink coffee. They have evolved into spaces where people enjoy atmosphere, emotion, and even art. Interior design plays a major role in attracting visitors and creating memorable experiences. Here are the latest Korean cafe interior trends . 1. Minimalism: Simple Yet Sophisticated One of the most popular trends today is minimalism . Clean white walls and natural lighting Simple furniture layouts with no clutter Calm, spacious environments perfect for thinking or working Minimalist cafes offer a quiet retreat where visitors can focus, relax, or enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee. Popular areas: Seongsu-dong, Hannam-dong   2. Vintage Vibes: Capturing the Past On the other hand, many cafes embrace vintage style . Rustic wooden tables and antique chairs Warm lighting and nostalgic decorations Retro posters and analog details Vintage cafes provide a cozy, nosta...

  Korean Self-Photo Culture: Capturing Special Moments by Yourself In Korea, "self-photo" culture has exploded in popularity over the past few years. Beyond simple selfies, it’s now about creating professional-quality memories using studio equipment and lighting — all by yourself. 1. The Rise of Self-Photo Studios Across Seoul and other major cities, self-photo studios have become trendy hotspots. Equipped with professional cameras and lighting Easy-to-use remote controls for independent shooting Various backgrounds and props to choose from These studios are especially popular with solo travelers, friends, and couples who want to capture special moments together. Many studios allow walk-ins without reservations, making them convenient for tourists.   2. The Charm of Self-Photography Freedom to pose naturally without pressure Comfortable atmosphere with no photographer watching Ability to create multiple concepts within a short session Affordable pricing ...

  Top 5 Seasonal Foods in Korea: Special Tastes from Spring to Winter Korea is known for its distinct four seasons, and each season brings its own beloved traditional foods. Enjoying seasonal dishes is an important part of Korean daily life and culture. Here are the top 5 seasonal foods you must try in Korea! 1. Spring – Naengi Soup (Shepherd's Purse Soup) When spring arrives, Koreans look forward to eating naengi soup . This light, fragrant soup made with shepherd's purse helps replenish vitamins and minerals after the long winter. The fresh herbal flavor and warm broth are a perfect match for the season. Naengi soup is often cooked with simple anchovy broth or miso, and is known for its refreshing taste that revives the body. Naengi is rich in nutrients and traditionally believed to boost immunity and detoxify the body.   2. Summer – Cold Soybean Noodle Soup (Kongguksu) During Korea's hot summer, nothing beats kongguksu . This dish features cold, creamy s...

  Korean Love for Stationery Stores: Memories and Small Joys In Korea, a stationery store is more than just a shop. It is a space filled with childhood memories, small joys, and emotional moments tied to simple objects. 1. School Stationery Stores: Nostalgia from Childhood For many Koreans, visiting the school stationery store was a daily ritual. After classes, students would rush to buy colorful pens, cute stickers, and small toys. The shops often sold simple snacks and tiny treasures. It was not just about shopping — it was about experiencing small happiness every day. School stationery stores became a part of childhood memories, filled with excitement and little adventures. 2. Modern 'Emotional Stationery Stores' Today, Korea’s "emotional stationery stores" have become popular again, especially among young adults who seek small moments of joy. Vintage-style pens and uniquely designed notebooks Special writing tools for calligraphy and journaling ...

  Korean Animal Cafe Culture: Special Places to Meet Cats and Dogs In Korea, cafes are not just places for coffee — they are spaces where people can connect with animals. Cat cafes, dog cafes, and other animal-themed cafes have become a unique part of Korean culture. 1. Cat Cafes: A Quiet Healing Space Cat cafes offer a cozy environment where visitors can relax and interact with cats. Entry usually requires purchasing a drink and sometimes an additional admission fee. Hygiene rules, such as hand sanitizing and changing shoes, are strictly enforced. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful of the cats' moods. Popular areas like Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Gangnam in Seoul have many cat cafes, each featuring different breeds and unique interior styles. 2. Dog Cafes: Energetic and Fun Dog cafes are lively and full of energy compared to cat cafes. Visitors can play with multiple dogs and even give them treats. Some cafes allow you to bring your own dog. In addition to...

  Buam-dong Alley – 부암동 골목 The quietest streets in the heart of Seoul --- Not all parts of Seoul move fast. Tucked behind Gyeongbokgung Palace, under the shadow of Inwangsan Mountain, there’s a neighborhood where things slow down — and stay slow. Buam-dong is one of Seoul’s most peaceful neighborhoods, where stone walls, small gardens, and soft light guide you through narrow alleys that carry the stories of both past and present. --- What to See in Buam-dong 1. Seokpajeong & Seoul Museum of Art A traditional Korean hanok combined with modern art exhibitions. You don’t even need to enter — sitting in the garden is enough. 2. Yun Dong-ju Literature Hall A small, quiet space honoring one of Korea’s most beloved poets. A perfect stop for solo travelers seeking reflection. 3. Suyeongdong Valley (Inwangsan) A hidden stream in the city — fresh, quiet, and shaded. Beautiful even on rainy days. 4. Changuimun (Jahamun Gate) One of the original gates of Seoul’s ancient fortress wall. A be...